The 2021 NFL season begins Thursday, Sept. 9 when the Tampa Bay Buccaneers host to the Dallas Cowboys (8 :20 p.m., NBC). Since late July, teams have been in training camp with three preseason games to inform which undrafted players might be worth keeping, which veterans may be on the decline, and which positions require reinforcements.
The regular season is fast approaching so teams will need to make roster decisions. ET on Tuesday. Below is an ESPN NFL Nation projection of how those rosters will look. This page will be updated after each preseason game. All 32 roster projections will also be available Sunday.
Each roster projection file contains ESPN+ content.
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The 53-man roster was easy to put together. But there are still questions about running back (three or more? Cornerback (does Arizona have to keep six cornerbacks if Isaiah Simmons, a versatile linebacker, is it possible for Arizona to keep five cornerbacks instead?). The biggest question is: Will Chandler Jones, pass-rusher, be on the roster for Week One? Josh Weinfuss' 53-man roster projection
Kicker might seem to be the most pressing issue for the Panthers, given all of the midweek activity and Joey Slye's slump, but it's not. It is not clear if Sam Darnold will be able to rebound from his three poor years in New York, and Cameron Erving may finally find a solution to the left tackle revolving door. The defense is lacking in depth. David Newton's 53-man roster projection
Although there aren't many household names on this roster, the new coach Dan Campbell is determined to create a strong identity for the organization during a rebuild. The new Lions are bringing in players who have a lot to offer and seem to have nothing to lose, as no one expects much from this team. Eric Woodyard's 53-man final roster projection
The Colts had one of their most competitive training camps in recent years, when it came to roster spots. Eddy Pineiro was beaten by Rodrigo Blankenship in the kicking contest. The position of receiver could be the most important on the team. Mike Wells' 53-man roster projection
The Chiefs' most intriguing decisions were made on the offensive line. They added eight talented roster candidates to the team, which is where the Chiefs are making their best decision. They might either keep some backups or deal one or two of them. Adam Teicher's final 53-man roster projection
Three quarterbacks will be retained by the Vikings. However, don't be surprised if a new player is added to Kirk Cousins' team once Minnesota has a chance to look at other veterans available next week. Kellen Mond and Jake Browning did not do enough in preseason games for the QB2 position, so one of them is off the roster. Courtney Cronin's 53-man roster projection
Drew Brees' retirement and an offseason salary cap purge, along with a few untimely injuries or suspensions, will result in at least 10 new Saints starters in Week 1. They will be looking to increase their depth at cornerback and defensive tackle as well as tight end, kicker, and kicker, by bringing in players from all over the league. There is also some speculation about whether they will retain veteran skill-position players such as Devonta Freeman, Latavius Murray and Chris Hogan. Mike Triplett's 53-man roster projection
The Jets have many holes to fill, including the No. The Jets will be busy over the next few days, with the No. They will also be trying to trade for an edge rusher and possibly using one of their receivers in a bargaining chip. Jamison Crowder is the most valuable trade asset and could be attractive to teams. Don't forget to consider a backup quarterback. Rich Cimini's final 53 man roster projection
There are a few reasons why the receiver group is questionable. It's young and inexperienced and requires a few unproven players. Some difficult personnel decisions are looming. Tim McManus' 53-man roster projection
The Steelers' training camp was full of intense battles for back-up jobs. Mason Rudolph seems to have won the No. The Steelers appear to be poised to keep Dwayne Hakins on the roster for this season's development. Mason Rudolph appears to have won the No. 2 QB job. Jaylen Samuels and Benny Snell, running backs, have been quiet camps. The Steelers are looking to add more depth to the secondary and linebackers. Brooke Pryor's 53-man roster projection
